Rescue mission underscores dangers of irregular migration
By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria | April 30, 2026
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has evacuated 181 Nigerians from Libya, including 12 children and 10 infants, as part of ongoing humanitarian efforts, under the Assisted Voluntary Return programme facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration in partnership with the Federal Government.
The returnees, many of whom were stranded under harsh conditions, arrived in Nigeria following coordinated efforts with international partners.The agency stated that its Lagos Operations Office received the returnees in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.
Officials say the operation is part of a broader initiative to assist distressed Nigerians abroad.
Harrowing Migration Experiences
Many returnees reportedly faced exploitation, detention, and unsafe living conditions.
Reintegration Efforts Ongoing
Authorities say support programmes are in place to help returnees rebuild their lives. According to the Head of NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office, Mohammed Olatunde, the returnees comprised 122 adults — 46 males and 76 females — as well as 29 children (13 boys and 16 girls) and 27 infants, including 17 males and 10 females.
The evacuation highlights the persistent risks associated with irregular migration routes.
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
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